Quickparts is standardising additive manufacturing across four production sites to support transferable part qualification and more resilient supply chains. The new equipment is expected to increase the company’s large-format throughput by 40 percent, particularly for aerospace, defence, space and specialist automotive programmes.

Designed for cost-efficient production of standard components, the Allrounder Trend combines energy-efficient electric drives with straightforward operation, short set-up times and ease of maintenance. Arburg will complement the machine demonstration with solutions for production management, AI-assisted configuration and digital customer services.

Elmet will introduce its Smartshot i cold runner system for LSR injection moulding to an international trade audience at Fakuma 2026. The technology automatically balances cavities, compensates for thermal changes and is designed to shorten mould ramp-up times by up to 95 percent.

A cooperation combines Billion’s established customer support in France with Engel’s international manufacturing, sales and service capabilities. An Engel injection moulding solution is also due to be installed at Billion’s Tech Centre for customer demonstrations.

Smaller manufacturers seeking to bring dimensional inspection in-house are the target for Hexagon’s new Enspec bridge coordinate measuring machine. Available in the UK and EMEA markets, the entry-level system combines PC-DMIS software with technology from the company’s established CMM range.

A new sales partnership covers Shibaura Machine LWB’s horizontal and vertical injection moulding machines for thermoplastic applications in Spain. Puebla Vendrell Engineering takes over sales as the machine manufacturer seeks to expand local coverage and customer support.

GPU-based simulation allows users to review large machining jobs more quickly. Solidcam 2026 integrates Machine Works GPU to generate in-process stock models in seconds, helping programmers check selected stages before running a full simulation.

Getting more from existing CNC equipment starts with the details of daily operation. Experience from Red Bull Ford Powertrains illustrates how lubrication can help machine shops maintain precision, reduce wear and control operating costs.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has moved well beyond the buzzword stage, and the tool and mould making industry is no exception. With the global AI market projected to grow at a steep pace through the next decade, manufacturers are increasingly weaving AI-powered solutions into core production workflows and CAD/CAM is where much of that transformation is now visible. Major players such as Siemens, Mastercam and Open Mind Technologies have all incorporated AI-powered solutions directly into their platforms.

New cutting-tool developments from Tungaloy, Horn and Dormer Pramet address different stages of the machining process. Common development priorities include reliable chip control, fewer tool changes and stable machining under demanding conditions.